Taste: Lemon drop martini

Jul. 16, 2013

A lot of work goes into the lemon drop martini at Vesta in Coralville. Bartenders mix house-infused lemon vodka, housemade sour and lemonade and serve the citrus-y drink in a sugar rimmed glass. / Benjamin Roberts / Iowa City Press-Citizen

When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade. But if life gives you a lot of lemons, we suggest you find some vodka and make a lemon drop martini. The sweet, citrus-y drink is the perfect summertime sipper, and these Iowa City bars and restaurants make some of the meanest martinis in town.

Graze

115 E. College St., Iowa City

Information: 887-5477

Downtown Iowa City’s Graze has been named the top spot to grab a martini in the area by Press-Citizen readers for four years running, and for good reason: quality ingredients, innovative recipes and sophisticated presentation come together in each of the bar’s drinks. The Lemon Drop martini ($8) — made with Absolut Citron, lemon and sour — is no exception. In the mood for something a little different? Try the Lime Drop martini ($8) — made with absolute citron, lime and sour — for a twist on the original.

Vesta

849 Quarry Road, Suite 100, Coralville

Information: 338-3782

A lot of work goes into each Lemon Drop martini ($7) served at Vesta in Coralville. Bartenders mix house-infused lemon vodka, housemade sour and lemonade and serve the citrus-y drink in a sugar rimmed glass. “They are really popular, especially in the summer, they are a nice, light summery drink,” Bartender Natalie Curlee said.

BlackStone

503 Westbury Drive Suite 1

Information: 338-1770

Balance is the name of the game when it comes to the Lemon Drop martini ($7) at BlackStone. Bartenders blend tart lemon juice with sweet Cointreau and vodka in their version of the classic drink. For a fruitier flavor try the Raspberry Lemon Drop ($8), which is made with Stoli Razberi Vodka, Triple Sec and raspberry puree.